REQ-182110 Biological Science Assistant (Project Aide)
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (State) | https://www.dfw.state.or.us/
Details
Application Deadline:
06/23/2025
Published:
06/11/2025
Starting Date:
after 8/1/2025
Ending Date:
after 10/31/2025
Hours per Week:
at least 40
Salary:
$3,429 to $4,023 per month
Education Required:
none
Experience Required:
none
Description
Hiring up to two seasonal positions with anticipated duration of August 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025.
(These are estimated dates. Length of season(s) may be shortened or extended depending on project needs, funding, or factors beyond the project’s control. This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified people to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill other vacancies as they occur).
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OREGON’S NATURAL RESOURCES!
Seasonal Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today! We especially encourage students, early career professionals, and anyone interested in a career in fish, wildlife, and natural resources, to apply! Come learn and train with ODFW and help us fulfill our mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.
Are you interested in providing information necessary to manage sport fisheries on the Columbia River, enthusiastic about interacting with the recreational fishing community and the public or enjoy being outdoors working around one of the largest rivers in North America? We are looking for motivated individuals to join our team and assist in important fisheries research efforts in the Columbia River Basin. This role is a great opportunity for anyone interested in gaining hands-on experience in fish research, with no prior experience necessary. We provide on-the-job training and are eager to support those who are excited to learn!
WHAT YOU WILL DO
The primary role of this position is to help conduct studies important to the management of fisheries resources in the Columbia River Basin. The fisheries project assistant interacts directly with recreational anglers to collect catch and effort information about sport fish like salmon and steelhead.
Field Work:
- Assist with data collection at various fishing sites, including counting boats and trailers, and speaking with anglers about their fishing experience.
- Help identify fish species, measure fish, and collect samples (e.g., scales, fin clips, etc.) for research purposes.
- Record data on fish, anglers, and other observations using handheld devices and paper forms.
- Opportunity to set up and deploy fishing gear, such as setlines.
Laboratory and Data Support:
- Review and organize field data and assist in entering this data into spreadsheets and databases.
- Help transport and organize biological samples for lab analysis.
- Assist with maintaining and cleaning equipment, vehicles, and field gear.
This position is ideal for individuals looking to gain practical experience in the field of fisheries and wildlife research including abundant interactions with recreational anglers and the public. Training will be provided for all necessary tasks, and your team will offer guidance and support as you develop your skills.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Working conditions are variable and can be challenging involving long days and driving long distances. This position includes rotating weekday and weekend shifts, including Saturdays. Tasks associated with this position require some physical exertion, working in inclement weather, and effectively communicating with a variety of personalities in a professional manner.
Questions about the position? Please contact Grant Waltz at Grant.T.Waltz@odfw.oregon.gov
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
This is an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience in environmental science, fisheries management, and research. We encourage you to apply if you’re passionate about the outdoors, natural resource management, or like working with the public in natural resource settings. We are committed to supporting the professional development of our team members and offer a collaborative, hands-on work environment.
Minimum qualifications are not established for this position; however, we are seeking applicants with the following experience or skills. Preference for interviews may be given to candidates with these skills and background:
- Interest in working outdoors and conducting fieldwork in varying weather conditions
- Experience working independently, as well as part of a team
- Effective and respectful communication skills, especially when interacting with the public or other team members.
- Experience working with a wide variety of people
- Anyone who has or is in pursuit of a Fisheries or Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences.
- No previous experience with fish identification or data collection is necessary – we will train you on these tasks!
APPLICATION DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS
- Resume and cover letter are required, please attach to application. Failure to submit the required cover letter or resume may remove your application from consideration. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
- The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%
- This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified people to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill other vacancies as they occur
- State of Oregon Employees, must apply through their employee Workday account.
- Please save a copy of this job announcement for reference, as it is not available for you to view after the announcement deadline
- First time applying to the State of Oregon? Consider utilizing a WorkSource Oregon Resource event!
- Reasonable accommodation for interviews will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities
- The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After you submit your application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans’ preference immediately following your submittal. These questions are necessary to complete the application process
- If you are experiencing difficulty applying for this position or have questions, please contact the ODFW Human Resources office at 503.947.6051
BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM
ODFW is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce as we strive to represent and better serve our neighboring communities. Our most important asset is our employees, and each person brings unique, different, and important contributions to the workplace and community we serve. With Oregon’s changing demographics, a workforce that reflects this change will make us stronger and create an opportunity for better decision making.
To learn more about the agency and the work we do, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about
If you enjoy the outdoors, Oregon is the place for you. We have glaciated mountain peaks to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west and the massive Columbia River Gorge to the north. You can fish 365 days a year, and there is hunting for big game, waterfowl, and game birds. The Oregon coast attracts thousands of people who clam, crab and fish in the ocean for halibut, salmon, and tuna. The outdoor opportunities are endless when it comes to fish and wildlife in Oregon! Oregon is known for their vineyards, breweries, and adventures for the whole family to enjoy.
To learn more about the department, the work we do, and see our beautiful state, view the following video at https://youtu.be/8CjDPiPMGAk
Additional benefits include:
- 11 paid holidays a year and a competitive benefits package
- Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon
- Live, work and play in The Dalles, Oregon
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- The employee in this position will be represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and will be subject to all terms and conditions of the collective bargaining agreement. Pay and benefits on all job listings may change without notice
- Finalists are subject to both a criminal history and motor vehicles check. Adverse background and/or driving information may disqualify you from further consideration
- Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the U.S. Department Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODFW participates in E-Verify. ODFW is not able to support VISA sponsorships
- Eligible veterans who meet the qualifications will be given veterans' preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources
Helpful Links & Resources
More information about our agency can be found on our social media accounts and at myodfw.com and http://www.dfw.state.or.us/
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
Contact
Grant Waltz
contact via the web posting is preferred (see Details section)